Toxic masculinity vs. male allies: A path to an inclusive and supportive society

#InternationalWomensDay2024 #DareToTry 

In recent years, the discussion around gender roles and dynamics has become increasingly important, with the concepts of toxic masculinity and male allies being particularly prominent. These terms highlight two very different behaviors and attitudes that men can display in relation to gender issues. While toxic masculinity is often associated with negative and harmful behaviors, male allies represent a positive and supportive role towards equality and feminism.

Definition of key terms

Male allies are male allies. In contexts such as equality, feminism and gender justice, the term refers to men who actively support efforts to tackle inequalities and discrimination affecting women and non-binary people. Male allies consciously work to promote gender equality, recognize their own privilege within patriarchal systems, and use it to effect positive change for all genders. 

Toxic masculinity refers to cultural norms and practices within a society that overemphasize and promote traditional masculine ideals that are often associated with harm, both to the men themselves and to others around them. These ideals include traits such as emotional restraint, dominance, toughness, aggressiveness and the devaluation of anything considered feminine. Toxic masculinity promotes the idea that men must prove their masculinity through power, control and avoidance of behaviors considered feminine.

Toxic masculinity: an obstacle to equality

Toxic masculinity refers to a cultural norm that promotes certain masculine behaviors as desirable or "manly," but which can actually be harmful to society, women and even men themselves. These behaviors include aggressiveness, emotional restraint, striving for dominance and devaluing anything feminine or seen as feminine. These patterns of behavior not only contribute to the perpetuation of gender inequality, but can also lead to mental health problems in men, such as depression or anxiety.

Male allies: allies for equality

In contrast, there are Male Allies - men who consciously campaign for the promotion of equality and against gender stereotypes. As allies, they recognize the privileges they have because of their gender and use them to fight injustice. The role of Male Allies is multifaceted and includes both active advocacy against discrimination and harassment as well as the support and promotion of women and non-binary people in professional and private contexts.

Advantages of Male Allies

The support provided by Male Allies offers numerous benefits, both for individuals and for society as a whole:

Promoting equality and diversity: Male Allies help to create a more inclusive and equitable environment by actively tackling discrimination and promoting diversity. This leads to a more productive and creative society.

Changing gender norms: Through the example of Male Allies, traditional gender norms can be challenged and changed. This enables all genders to develop their full potential without being limited by stereotypical expectations.

Personal growth: Men who act as Male Allies often report personal growth as they develop a deeper understanding of social justice issues and become more empathetic through their involvement.

Strengthening relationships: Advocating for equality and against toxic behaviors can lead to stronger and healthier relationships between the genders. This empowerment is based on respect, understanding and equality.

Social change: Male Allies play a crucial role in creating social change. Their support can help to reduce structural inequalities and promote a culture of equality.

As Male Allies, men can play an essential role in combating misogyny and objectification of women in the workplace and support the promotion of sisterhood. Here are concrete steps and actions men can take to act as Male Allies and provide effective support:

1. awareness and education

Reflect on own behavior: Men should reflect on their own behavior and attitudes toward women in the workplace and become aware of where unconscious biases or stereotypes may be influencing their actions.

Utilize educational resources: Actively participate in gender equity and anti-discrimination trainings and workshops to develop a deeper understanding of the issues.

2. active listening and empathy

Give space and listen: Actively listening when women talk about their experiences without interrupting them or relativizing their experiences.

Show empathy: Trying to understand women's perspectives and experiences and showing empathy for the challenges they face.

3. speaking and acting

Use inclusive language: Avoid language that objectifies or devalues women and instead promote inclusive and respectful language.

Intervene against injustice: When witnessing discrimination, harassment or misogyny, actively intervene and address these behaviors, both informally and through official channels.

4. support in the professional environment

Mentoring and sponsorship: Support women in their professional development, through mentoring programs or by acting as a sponsor for their careers.

Promote equality in meetings: Ensure that women are heard in meetings, that their contributions are valued and that they can participate in discussions on an equal footing.

5. promote diversity and inclusion

Support diverse teams: Commit to building and promoting diverse teams where women and men are equally represented.

Promote inclusive corporate culture: Actively contribute to creating a culture of inclusion and equality in which all employees are valued and respected regardless of their gender.

6. take responsibility

Self-criticism and willingness to learn: Recognize that the process of being an ally requires continuous learning and self-reflection. Being able to admit mistakes and learn from them.

Taking responsibility: Not just leaving the work of raising awareness and fighting misogyny to women, but actively taking responsibility yourself and being part of the solution.

Dear Male Allies at Eviden , I would like to take this moment to thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your support, appreciation and the respect you show my female colleagues and I are invaluable. In a world that still struggles with inequality and discrimination, you are shining examples of what positive change can look like.

Through your active engagement as Male Allies, you contribute significantly to a work environment where everyone feels valued, heard and respected. You show that true strength lies in empathy and support and not in outdated ideals of dominance and exclusion. Your willingness to listen, learn and advocate for equality makes Eviden a better place for us all.

Your actions speak volumes and not only inspire other men to follow your example, but also boost the confidence and trust of all female employees at Eviden. At a time when it is more important than ever to stand together and fight for equality and inclusion, you are indispensable allies on this journey. Let's continue to work together for a culture of equality and respect at Eviden and beyond. You are making a difference, and for that I am deeply grateful.

In conclusion, the movement towards a more inclusive and equitable society requires a collective effort. Men, as Male Allies, play a crucial role in this process. By recognizing and discarding toxic behavior patterns, actively standing up against discrimination and inequality, and fostering an environment based on equality and respect, they can contribute significantly to positive change. It's not just about supporting the rights of women and non-binary people, but also about creating a culture where all people can reach their full potential, free from the shackles of rigid gender norms.

On this International Women's Day 2024, I invite all men to take up the challenge and become or strengthen their role as Male Allies. We all benefit from a world that values diversity, equality and inclusion. Share this article to raise awareness and encourage more men to be part of the change needed. #InternationalWomensDay2024 #DareToTry

Let's work together to create a society where equality is not just an ideal, but a lived reality. Become a Male Ally and help shape change.

If you have been inspired by the insights and messages in this article and believe that more people should benefit from this discussion about the importance of Male Allies and tackling toxic masculinity, I ask you to share this post. By expanding awareness and understanding of these issues, together we can foster a more inclusive, equitable and empathetic workplace and society. 

Share this article with your colleagues, friends and in your networks to spread the word and encourage more men to be part of the change. Together, let's harness the power of solidarity to create real change. 

#InternationalWomensDay2024 #DareToTry